Pliable-Wall Air Duct Framework for Shape Stability and Quiet Airflow
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Metal ducts in buildings can cause condensation issues leading to mold and bacteria growth, uncomfortable drafts, and unsightly sagging when deflated, and produce noise when re-inflated, posing challenges in environments where air quality and aesthetics are critical.
Innovation Solution
A pliable-wall air duct system with an internal framework made of rigid materials like plastic or fiberglass that maintains the duct's shape and tension, preventing sagging and noise when the blower is inactive, and includes radial support members and adjustable end caps to ensure consistent airflow and appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If metal ducts are used for conveying conditioned air, then structural strength and durability are improved, but condensation formation and mold/bacteria growth occur on the duct surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces rigid metal ducts with flexible fabric ducts that have porous walls. The fabric material provides structural flexibility while the porous structure allows air to pass through the duct walls, eliminating condensation accumulation and mold growth by allowing the duct surface to breathe and dry naturally.
Solution Approach 2:
The fabric duct walls are designed with porous structure that allows conditioned air to permeate through the duct surface. This porosity prevents condensation from accumulating on the interior surface and eliminates the warm, moist environment that promotes mold and bacteria growth, while still maintaining adequate structural integrity.
2Ease of operation
If fabric ducts are used to prevent condensation and improve air distribution, then airflow distribution and condensation prevention are improved, but the duct sags and produces noise when the blower is inactive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the continuous fabric duct into multiple segments by inserting rigid or semi-rigid support rings at regular intervals along the duct length. These support rings maintain the duct's cylindrical shape and prevent sagging when air pressure is absent, while allowing the fabric sections between rings to remain flexible for optimal airflow distribution when active.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite structure combining flexible fabric material with rigid or semi-rigid support elements (such as plastic, fiberglass, or metal rings). The fabric provides flexibility and airflow distribution, while the embedded support rings provide structural stability and shape maintenance when the blower is inactive, eliminating sagging and popping noises.
Data Source
AI summary
Example air ducts comprising pliable tubular sidewalls are provided with example internal frameworks that hold the duct in a generally expanded shape even when the duct is depressurized. The framework tensions the pliable sidewall material along the length of the ducts to keep the material taut. In some examples, the framework is restrained within the duct such that the duct's sidewall, being in tension, holds the framework in compression longitudinally. Thus, in the longitudinal direction, the duct is in tension and the framework is in compression. To prevent the framework from buckling under the compressive force, some example frameworks comprise a central longitudinal shaft with a plurality of radial spokes and rings that help hold the shaft straight. In some examples, the rings also help hold the duct radially expanded.